In a huge boost for regional tourism, job creation and the local economy, Choice Hotels Asia-Pac has announced that funding has been secured for the brand-new LOAM Hotel in Stawell which will be the largest in the Grampians region.
The stylish 77-room, 4-star hotel – part of Choice Hotels’ upscale Ascend Collection Hotel – will be primely located on the Western Freeway between Melbourne and Adelaide, attracting business and leisure travellers from within Victoria, interstate and overseas.
The $16 million double-storey development spanning two buildings will create an estimated 174 new construction jobs and 53 ongoing roles as well as 100-plus indirect ‘flow-on’ jobs in the supply chain. Overall, the LOAM Hotel will inject an estimated $150 million economic value into the local economy over the next decade.
The project has taken owner-developers Sam and Gerard Ballantyne of Barkly Property Ventures 18 months to work through planning and approval processes and has received unanimous support from regional and State peak bodies to see the major tourism asset come to fruition.
“We’re very thankful for the advocacy and support of Northern Grampians Shire Council, Grampians Tourism as well as our project delivery partner Wimmera Southern Mallee Development,” Sam Ballantyne said.
“We’re delighted that the Victorian Government has also embraced our vision and provided a grant through its Regional Tourism Investment Fund 2024.
“We look forward to delivering a hotel that will serve as a catalyst to strengthen and grow the Grampians’ status as a premium tourism destination in regional Victoria. LOAM Hotel will also provide quality accommodation with cooking facilities, full kitchens and workstations for corporate guests who are working in the region for longer periods.
“LOAM Hotel will be a flagship for the region, and we are firmly focused on collaborating with – and connecting our guests to – local businesses, vendors, producers and artisans to stimulate the economy and be a valuable part of the community.”
Supported by the Victorian Government’s Regional Tourism Investment Fund Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said this will be a major boost for the region’s tourism.
“We’re proud to invest in projects like this that strengthen Victoria’s position as a world-class destination and give visitors even more reasons to explore and enjoy our regions.’’
Choice Hotel Asia-Pac CEO Trent Fraser said the addition of LOAM Hotel to the Ascend Collection brand portfolio is an exciting milestone.
“LOAM Hotel is ideally situated for our guests to explore the Grampians’ incredible natural attractions and vibrant culture and events scene, while also catering to corporate travellers seeking a home away from home,” he said.
Architectural renders released today showcase how LOAM Hotel will blend seamlessly with the renowned Grampians’ landscape. The hotel’s design celebrates the natural wonders of the region and pays homage to the Traditional Owners of Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali people. The interior fit-out, colour palette and furnishings will also take inspiration from ‘The Six Seasons of Gariwerd’ – highlighting the surrounding flora, fauna and cultural connections.
Key features of the hotel include studio-style rooms, a wellness studio and hydrothermal room with sauna and ice baths, onsite guest laundry, onsite electric vehicle (EV) chargers and a solar energy system.
The hotel has prioritised sustainability and will exceed a 5-star energy rating. It will also have four dedicated accessible rooms that are fully compliant with best-practice Universal Design standards to ensure the property offers an inclusive accommodation experience for all guests.
Further updates about LOAM Hotel’s building progress and features will be provided in the coming weeks and months.
LOAM Hotel’s website is loamhotel.com.au.